Savor

Savor Ministries
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Christianity
  • Weekly

This podcast is dedicated to helping women delight in the goodness of God through discovering the heart of God. Join Staci and friends as they delight in the goodness of God through honest conversations about Him and His Word. Like a good meal, it’s our hope that Savor will bring refreshment and sustenance to your journey with God. Taste and see that the Lord is good.

  1. 2d ago

    Why does a 'good' God let 'evil' things happen? Part 4

    In this concluding episode of the series exploring why a good God permits evil and hard things, Staci and Elizabeth dive into the often misunderstood and intimidating topics of divine wrath and the day of the Lord. They unpack how God's wrath is not a capricious, arbitrary anger, but rather the justified, righteous response of a holy, loving God against unrighteousness and sin's destructive power. Drawing on Scripture, they explain how the wrath of God and His redemptive love operate together, how believers are covered by the blood of Christ to escape punishment, and why "the day of the Lord" is a joyful celebration for those in Christ rather than a day to fear. In This Episode We Talk About: Unpacking common misconceptions about the "angry God of the Old Testament" versus the "kinder New Testament Jesus." How God's holiness and holy love form the foundation for His righteous anger against sin. Viewing the day of the Lord and the day of wrath as two sides of the same coin. A relatable mama-bear analogy to understand how a deep, protective love inherently opposes what seeks to destroy. The assurance that those in Christ Jesus are completely shielded from the wrath of God and called back into fellowship through His endless patience. Key Scriptures Mentioned: Romans 1:18  Romans 2:5–8  John 3:16  Zephaniah 1:14–18  Romans 8:1  Favorite Quote from This Episode: "Clarity is the kindest thing I can do right now... God is not wrath. No, God is holy love. And because of that holy love, there is a wrath of God that will come against the sin that is ready to destroy us." Savor Moment:  Invite a friend over, create this easy Mexican treat, and while it’s cooking, explore some Bible Software together…Try out Logos or Blue Letter Bible and research Day of The Lord and Day of Wrath…see what you discover…You’ll be a pro in no time!  https://www.juliapacheco.com/chicken-tortilla-casserole/ Reflection Question: Are there areas in your life or heart where you have been running from God, believing the lie that His holiness pushes you away rather than running into the open arms of His long-suffering, patient, and redemptive love through Christ? Resources: Frank D. Macchia, Jesus the Spirit Baptizer: Christology in Light of Pentecost (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2018), 275.   Jeremy J. Wynne, Wrath Among the Perfections of God’s Life (New York, NY: T&T Clark, 2013), 202.   Jim West, “Divine Wrath,” in Lexham Theological Wordbook, ed. Douglas Mangum et al. (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014).    Scott Hahn, ed., in Catholic Bible Dictionary (New York; London; Toronto; Sydney; Auckland: Doubleday, 2009), 201–202.   Elmer A. Martens, “Day of the Lord, God, Christ, The,” in Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, Baker Reference Library (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1996), 146, 149.

  2. Oct 27

    Why does a 'good' God let 'evil' things happen? Part 3

    Navigating Suffering, Theodicy, and the Grace of God Episode Summary: In this deep and deeply personal episode, Staci and Elizabeth tackle one of the hardest questions of faith: How do we reconcile an all-loving, all-powerful God with the reality of suffering and evil in the world? Introducing the theological term theodicy ("justifying God"), they discuss why it is not our job to defend or justify God, but rather to let God justify us. Drawing from the heavy, complex story of King David and Bathsheba in 2 Samuel 12, the conversation shifts to how God works restoration through pain, the profound parallel of Christ's sacrifice, and how Colossians 3 challenges us to put earthly things to death and keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. In This Episode We Talk About: The Definition of Theodicy: What the term means, its historical roots, and why humans shouldn't try to play the role of defending or justifying God. The Story of King David (2 Samuel 12): Examining David’s sin, Nathan's confronting role, the loss of David's child, and where David placed his ultimate hope. Suffering vs. Sin: Reassuring listeners that not all suffering is a direct punishment for personal sin, and offering comfort to those walking through dark, painful seasons. The Ultimate Parallel: Looking at how God watched His Son, Jesus, bear the sins of the world, contrasting David's loss with Christ's ultimate sacrifice on the cross. Putting Off the Earthly (Colossians 3): Practical insights on inviting the Holy Spirit to reveal idols, desires, and behaviors that need to be put to death in our own lives. Key Scriptures Mentioned Romans 8:28–30  2 Timothy  2 Samuel 12:10–25  Colossians 3:1–6  John 3:16 & 3:36  Isaiah 53:4–6  Favorite Quote From This Episode "Because David's hope was not in the healing of the child. David's hope was in the healer who could heal forever." Savor Moment: Invite a friend and make this yummy, easy Mexican Casserole and discuss the idea of Theodicy…https://www.juliapacheco.com/chicken-tortilla-casserole/ Reflection Question As you read through Colossians 3, are there areas in your life—whether idols, hidden desires, or unhealed pain—that God is asking you to invite the Holy Spirit to examine, and what might it look like to truly surrender them to Him? References: Frank D. Macchia, Jesus the Spirit Baptizer: Christology in Light of Pentecost (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2018), 275. Jeremy J. Wynne, Wrath Among the Perfections of God’s Life (New York, NY: T&T Clark, 2013), 202. Jim West, “Divine Wrath,” in Lexham Theological Wordbook, ed. Douglas Mangum et al. (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014).  Scott Hahn, ed., in Catholic Bible Dictionary (New York; London; Toronto; Sydney; Auckland: Doubleday, 2009), 201–202. Elmer A. Martens, “Day of the Lord, God, Christ, The,” in Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, Baker Reference Library (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1996), 146, 149. Dana M. Harris, “Day of the Lord,” in Dictionary of the New Testament Use of the Old Testament, ed. G. K. Beale et al. (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic: A Division of Baker Publishing Group, 2023), 165   Stay Connected: Visit us at savorministries.org to discover more resources, or feel free to send us a direct message anytime!

  3. Oct 20

    Why does a 'good' God let 'evil' things happen? Part 2

    In Part 2 of this series on the problem of evil, Staci and Elizabeth dive into one of the most challenging topics in Scripture: how a good, holy, and pure God could command war and the destruction of whole nations in the Old Testament. Moving past superficial ideas of "morality," this conversation reframes Christianity as an abiding heart connection with a holy Creator rather than a checklist of rules. We unpack the true meaning of the Hebrew word herem ("devoted to destruction"), address the horrific ancient practices (such as child sacrifice) that brought divine judgment, contrast God's divine authorization in Scripture with human abuses like the Crusades, and offer practical encouragement on rest, honesty, and trusting God through life's deepest trials. In This Episode We Talk About: God, Judgment, and Old Testament Warfare: Why Christianity isn't just about "morality" or "being good," but about a heart posture toward a holy God. The original covenant promises to Abraham and how Jesus opens the door for all nations to be grafted in (Genesis 12:1–3, Galatians 3:16–19). Understanding the Hebrew term Herem (cherem) — total removal from human use and sacred dedication to God, rather than simple wholesale destruction. Why God commanded the dispossession of ancient nations: eradicating detestable abominations (e.g., child sacrifice) to preserve a pure remnant and protect His people from idolatry (Deuteronomy 12:29–32, Deuteronomy 9:4). Distinguishing divine authorization and God-accomplished victories in the Old Testament from unauthorized human-led "holy wars" like the Crusades. Key Scriptures Mentioned 1 Kings 19:4–8  Proverbs 6:16–19  Philippians 4:4  Genesis 12:1–3  Galatians 3:16–19  Deuteronomy 12:29–32  Deuteronomy 9:4  Joshua 10–11  Favorite Quote from This Episode: "White-knuckling morality is not what it's about... It is about a heart posture, a heart connection to the King of Kings, to God Himself who invites us in." Savor Moment:  Spend some time in prayer asking the Lord if there are things in your life that need to be devoted to Him,  and be willing to surrender those things to Him… Make Chippy Boys! Cape Cod Potato Chips, blue cheese crumbles and balsamic glaze Pour the chips in a microwave bowl and sprinkle with blue cheese Warm the chips in the microwave for 30-45 seconds then drizzle glaze   Reflection Question: Where in your life might you be relying on "white-knuckling morality" or making excuses (like small white lies), instead of cultivating a deep, honest heart connection with a holy and merciful God? Episode References: Gary Ledbetter, “War,” in The Popular Encyclopedia of Apologetics: Surveying the Evidence for the Truth of Christianity (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 2008), 492. Alan Murray, The Crusades to the Holy Land: The Essential Reference Guide, ed. Alan Murray (New York, NY: ABC-CLIO, 2015). [See here.] Peter C. Craigie, The Problem of War in the Old Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1978), 27–28.   Stay Connected: Visit us at savorministries.org to discover more resources, or feel free to send us a direct message anytime! Share the Encouragement: If these words sparked hope in your heart, please subscribe, leave a review, and pass this episode along to a friend who needs a lifeline today. Check out the FREE Bible Study on the Armor of God! Download it today at www.savorministries.org/store

  4. Oct 13

    Why does a 'good' God let 'evil' things happen? Part 1

    The Problem of Evil: Why Does God Allow Bad Things to Happen? (Part 1) Episode Summary: In this kick-off episode to a multi-part series, Staci and Elizabeth dive straight into one of the most unsettling, deep, and honest questions every person faces: Why would a good God let bad things happen? From confusing Old Testament passages to modern-day personal heartbreaks and medical crises, we validate that these hard questions are not something Christians should fear or brush off with easy clichés. By taking a close look at Genesis chapters 1, 2, and 3, we explore God’s original design for humanity—complete with authority and unbroken fellowship—and look at what truly went wrong at the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. We unpack how human self-interest distorts our understanding of good and evil, why God's boundaries are designed for our flourishing, and how God meets us in our pain rather than abandoning us to it. In This Episode We Talk About Validating Big Questions: Why Christians shouldn't be afraid to ask or answer hard questions about evil, suffering, and difficult Old Testament passages. Equipping Your Arsenal: How understanding the problem of evil helps both believers in crisis and seekers who are on the fence about faith. Cliché Answers vs. Helpful Comfort: Why saying "God can do whatever He wants" might be true, but often isn't helpful when someone is suffering. Genesis 1–3 Zoom-In: Genesis 1: The cultural mandate, authority, and dominion given to humanity. Genesis 2: The distinction between the Garden of Eden and the outside world, plus the two distinct trees (the Tree of Life vs. the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil). Genesis 3: The Fall, human exposure/nakedness, and the shift from dependence on God to autonomous self-interest. The Heart of the Restriction: Why God reserved the knowledge of good and evil for Himself to protect human flourishing within His boundaries. God’s Provision in the Fall: The very first hint of sacrifice—God replacing human attempts at covering themselves (fig leaves) with animal skins, pointing ahead to the blood of Jesus. God with Us in the Pain: How Jesus weeping at Lazarus's tomb shows us that God doesn't expect us to bypass grief, but meets us right where we mourn. Key Scriptures Mentioned: Genesis 1:28–29  Genesis 2:16–17 Genesis 3:6–7  Genesis 3:21  Matthew 19:17  Luke 18:19  Favorite Quote From This Episode "Obedience to God's boundaries—not the acquisition of autonomous knowledge—is the path to human flourishing." Savor Moment: Spend some time in prayer, asking God where you personally need to recognize His authority and yield to it…Make this easy delish pasta! https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a61947758/cacio-e-pepe-ravioli-recipe/ Reflection Question When facing suffering or difficult circumstances, do you usually ask "Why would a good God let this bad thing happen?" or do you ask "God, through Your Spirit, show me where You are in this and how I can respond?" How does shifting from seeking autonomous knowledge to relying on God change the way you navigate pain? Stay Connected: Visit us at savorministries.org to discover more resources, or feel free to send us a direct message anytime! Share the Encouragement: If these words sparked hope in your heart, please subscribe, leave a review, and pass this episode along to a friend who needs a lifeline today. Check out the NEW, FREE Study on The Armor of God! www.savorministries.org/store

  5. Oct 6

    Who is Jesus? Part 4

    In this episode, Staci and Elizabeth wrap up this mini-series by discovering that Jesus actually is a baller while diving deep into Mark Chapter 2 to unpack the dramatic story of Jesus healing the paralytic. What starts as a well-known Bible story about four faithful friends lowering a man through a thatched roof turns out to be a powerful, direct demonstration of Jesus proving His divine authority to forgive sins. We unpack how Jesus’s response to the skeptical Pharisees clearly reveals His identity as God incarnate—a bold, undeniable demonstration of His power.   From there, we pivot from theology to practical daily life: Why does the Trinity actually matter to you? We discuss how understanding God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit reshapes our understanding of Creation, transforms the way we pray, and provides a divine blueprint for human community and relationships.   In This Episode We Talk About: The Paralytic Lowered Through the Roof: Unpacking Mark 2, thatched roofs vs. modern roofing, and how Jesus saw right into the hearts of the Pharisees.   Forgiveness vs. Healing: Why Jesus forgave the man's sins first—and then backed it up with physical healing to publicly prove His authority as God on Earth.   The "Son of Man": Revisiting Jesus's favorite self-title and how it points directly to His Deity.   Why God Created the World: How the eternal, perfect fellowship within the Trinity proves God didn't create humanity out of loneliness or need, but purely out of delight and desire.   How the Trinity Transforms Prayer: Moving beyond dry recitation to pray to the Father, in the name of Jesus, through the power of the Holy Spirit.   Community Over Isolation: Why the relational nature of God shows that we were never designed to walk through life or faith alone.   Key Scriptures Mentioned: Mark 2:1–12  Mark 2:9–11  Genesis 1:1, 26  Matthew 6:9–13  Philippians 4:6  Ephesians 5:20    Favorite Quote From This Episode: "Contemplating the mystery and beauty of the Trinity isn't just information for information's sake—it transforms our heart posture to love Him more, worship Him deeper, and stand in awe of a God who is magnificent."   Savor Moment: Invite a friend over to talk about the beauty and mystery of the Trinity as you enjoy this lemony, hearty soup… Italian Wedding Soup   Reflection Question: How does knowing that God created you simply because He wanted to—out of love rather than need—change how you see your purpose and value today?   Stay Connected: Visit us at savorministries.org to discover more resources, or feel free to send us a direct message anytime! Share the Encouragement: If these words sparked hope in your heart, please subscribe, leave a review, and pass this episode along to a friend who needs a lifeline today.

  6. Sep 29

    Who is Jesus? Part 3

    Understanding the Son of Man:   Episode Summary: Why did Jesus refer to Himself as the "Son of Man" more than any other title in the Gospels? In this episode, Staci and Elizabeth dig into the nitty-gritty of Jesus’s identity—specifically His divinity and humanity coexisting as true God and true man. Far from being a simple reference to His human nature, the title "Son of Man" carries rich Old Testament history, apocalyptic prophecy, and deep theological weight. Join us as we trace the origins of this title from Psalms and Ezekiel into the prophetic vision of Daniel 7, explore how Jesus used it to foretell His suffering and kingdom, and discuss what it means for us today.    In This Episode We Talk About Nicknames & Titles: A lighthearted banter on the names and nicknames we carry, how they develop, and the stories behind them.   Jesus’s Favorite Title: Why Jesus referred to Himself as the "Son of Man" roughly 84 times in the Gospels.   Old Testament Origins: How the term "son of man" shifts from referring to general mankind (Job, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Psalms) or a specific prophet (Ezekiel) to a heavenly, divine figure in Daniel 7.   Divine Authority & End Times: Connecting Daniel’s vision of the "one like a son of man" approaching the Ancient of Days to Jesus’s proclamation of the Kingdom of God and His ultimate return.   Predicting the Suffering Messiah: How Jesus uniquely connected the "Son of Man" title to His upcoming rejection, death, and resurrection—a concept His disciples repeatedly struggled to grasp.   The Hypostatic Union: Defining the mystery of Jesus being fully God and fully man in one person without confusion or separation, and why "Son of Man" captures both His deity and humanity.   Audience Context: Why Jesus used "Son of Man" with Jewish audiences familiar with Daniel, while Paul focused on different language when ministering to Gentile believers.   Key Scriptures Mentioned: Psalm 8:4 & Psalm 80:17  Daniel 7:13–14  Mark 8:31, Mark 9:31, & Mark 10:33–34  Matthew 16:13–17  Luke 17:20–21  John 1:12  Acts 7:56    Favorite Quotes from This Episode: "The Son of God became the Son of Man that you who were sons of men might be made sons of God." — St. Augustine   "Ancient of Days... before the days, I was ancient. I have existed before all days ever existed and I will continue to exist."   "The title 'Son of Man' becomes the vehicle for expressing how these two natures coexist in Jesus. We have the perfect union of deity and humanity existing in one person without being mixed." — Dr. Tony Evans (Our God Is Awesome)   Savor Moment: Take time to thank God academically and spiritually for the hypostatic union…share what you've learned with a friend and prepare this yummy pasta dish together:  Tomato Pasta Recipe   Reflection Question: When you read the Gospels and see Jesus refer to Himself as the "Son of Man," how does knowing its roots in Daniel 7 change the way you view His authority, His suffering, and His divinity? Who is one person in your life you can share this fresh perspective with this week?   Stay Connected: Visit us at savorministries.org to discover more resources, or feel free to send us a direct message anytime! Share the Encouragement: If these words sparked hope in your heart, please subscribe, leave a review, and pass this episode along to a friend who needs a lifeline today.

  7. Sep 22

    Who is Jesus? Part 2

    Podcast Episode: The Light of the World – Connecting Genesis 1 and John 1 Episode Summary: In this episode, Staci and Elizabeth continue their series on the nature of God and Orthodox Christian theology, shifting focus to the divinity and pre-existence of Jesus Christ—the second person of the Trinity. By exploring the deep theological connections between Genesis 1 and John 1, they uncover how John presents Christ's incarnation not merely as a new story, but as the continuation and ultimate fulfillment of creation itself. The hosts also look at Jesus’ direct encounters with the religious leaders of his day in the Gospel of John, illustrating how Christ clearly declared His divinity as the eternal "I AM" who brings light into spiritual darkness to restore unbroken fellowship with God. In This Episode We Talk About: Recap of the Trinity: Building on last week's discussion regarding different world religions versus Orthodox Christianity's view of the Godhead. The Harmonization of Genesis 1 & John 1: How John intentionally echoes the creation account ("In the beginning") to demonstrate Christ's active role in creation as the spoken Word of God. Understanding the Incarnation: Breaking down the term incarnation (Greek: sarcothenta), meaning "made flesh" or "in the flesh." Light vs. Darkness: How Christ came as the light of the world to overcome humanity's spiritual darkness—a darkness that stems from the broken fellowship in Genesis 3. Confronting Spiritual Blindness: Analyzing Jesus' strong interactions with the Pharisees in John 8 and John 5, showing why they failed to comprehend His identity despite knowing the Scriptures. The Ultimate "I AM" Statement: Examining John 8:58 and how Jesus explicitly claims the divine name of Yahweh. Key Scriptures Mentioned: John 1:1–5  Genesis 1:1–5  Genesis 3  John 8:42–45  John 5:39–40  John 8:58  Favorite Quote from This Episode: "John is not just calling us back to Genesis to say, 'Remember Genesis.' He's saying this creation that God did in Genesis... is a foundation. And now God is coming forth and presenting the continuation: the incarnation of Christ." Reflection Question: So, as you read the Gospels this week, ask yourself: Where do my current thoughts about who Jesus is come from, and how can I start reading Scripture with a fresh lens to see how Jesus and God the Father are one from Genesis to Revelation? Savor Moment: Within the next 48 hours, pray for God to place a woman on your heart to  share your faith with….prepare and enjoy this quick 30-minute "Trinity Pan Gravy" smashed meatloaf meal together as you enjoy a spiritual conversation. Trinity Pan Gravy Meatloaf  Stay Connected: Visit us at savorministries.org to discover more resources, or feel free to send us a direct message anytime! Share the Encouragement: If these words sparked hope in your heart, please subscribe, leave a review, and pass this episode along to a friend who needs a lifeline today.

  8. Sep 15

    Who is Jesus? Part 1

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

This podcast is dedicated to helping women delight in the goodness of God through discovering the heart of God. Join Staci and friends as they delight in the goodness of God through honest conversations about Him and His Word. Like a good meal, it’s our hope that Savor will bring refreshment and sustenance to your journey with God. Taste and see that the Lord is good.

Information

  • Creator
    Savor Ministries
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    140
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 828649
  • Show Website
    Savor

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